CHOOSING AN OFFICIANT FOR YOUR WEDDING

CHOOSING AN OFFICIANT FOR YOUR WEDDING

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! This is undoubtedly an exciting time for you and your beloved as you plan the special event that marks the beginning of your life together as a married couple. 

At the heart of your wedding celebration is the ceremony that unites the two of you before your family and friends. The vows of love and commitment that you exchange on this day set the stage for your happy and successful marriage. Your wedding ceremony should be special, unique, and perfect for you. 

The most important consideration, when choosing a wedding officiant, is finding someone with whom you feel comfortable and who feels honored and delighted to be sharing your special day with you.

Here are some questions to consider as you make this important decision:

1. Is he or she available on your date? (If not, do they have a referral list?)

2. What is the officiant’s spiritual background, and would he or she be incorporating those beliefs in your ceremony? (If you prefer no spiritual references, would the officiant be comfortable with that?)

3. How much experience do they have performing weddings and do they have references available?

4. Can the bride and groom write their own vows, or any other part of the ceremony?  

5. If you have special needs, such as interfaith, family blending, cultural rituals, etc., do they have experience including those elements in a ceremony?

6. What is their fee, and what does it include?  Such items to be included could be: prepare and perform the ceremony, attend the rehearsal and filing the marriage license. Are there any extra fees, such as for travel or extra time? Will you be able to sign a contract with them?

7. Will you be able to review the ceremony before the wedding? If you wish to make changes, are you allowed to do so, and is there any extra cost for changes?

8. Approximately how long will the ceremony last?

9. Is the officiant available to attend / conduct the rehearsal?

10. Do they offer (or require) pre-marital counseling?

11. In case of emergency, do they have a backup person to perform the wedding?

12. Will he or she meet with you, at no cost or obligation to you, to see if you are “a good fit”?

May you find the perfect officiant for your wedding, and may you enjoy a long and happy marriage!